13-23. took . . . a present for Esau--Jacob combined active exertions with earnest prayer; and this teaches us that we must not depend upon the aid and interposition of God in such a way as to supersede the exercise of prudence and foresight. Superiors are always approached with presents, and the respect expressed is estimated by the quality and amount of the gift. The present of Jacob consisted of five hundred fifty head of cattle, of different kinds, such as would be most prized by Esau. It was a most magnificent present, skilfully arranged and proportioned. The milch camels alone were of immense value; for the she camels form the principal part of Arab wealth; their milk is a chief article of diet; and in many other respects they are of the greatest use.
JFB.
Outline
1 Jacob's vision at Mahanaim
3 Jacob's message to Esau
6 He is afraid of Esau's coming
9 He prays for deliverance
13 He sends a present to Esau
24 He wrestles with an angel at Peniel
28 Jacob's name is changed to Israel
31 He halts upon his thigh
Ancient Customs
Gifts
Halted Upon his thigh
Geography
Ford Jabbok
Peniel
Edom
Quick Reference Map
Map of the Jordan River
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The Old Testament
Genesis Resources
Creation
Adam and Eve
The
Flood
The Tower of Babel
Abraham the First Hebrew
Isaac, Son of Promise
Jacob
and the 12 Tribes
Joseph
and Egypt